Expanding the semi-boarding school model in Xuan Loc Commune

In line with efforts to innovate teaching methods and meet parents’ childcare needs, many schools in Xuan Loc Commune, Dong Nai Province, have been gradually implementing the semi-boarding school model. This approach is considered practical and effective, contributing to improved education quality and the comprehensive development of students.

Huynh Van Nghe Primary and Secondary School. Photo: Phuoc Tho

Huynh Van Nghe Primary and Secondary School, established in August 2024 with funding from social resources, is the pioneer in introducing the semi-boarding model in Xuan Loc. The school currently has 20 classrooms and 5 subject rooms serving both primary and lower-secondary students.

At present, the school enrolls nearly 550 primary students across 17 classes. Some unused classrooms have been repurposed as rest areas for semi-boarding pupils. With strong support from local authorities and the consensus of parents, 100% of primary students are now participating in the program. They are provided with rest spaces that ensure good health while instilling disciplined daily routines.

Students’ rest area at Huynh Van Nghe Primary and Secondary School. Photo: Phuoc Tho

Tran Thi Dieu Ha, Vice Principal of Huynh Van Nghe Primary and Secondary School, shared: “To reassure parents, the school signed a contract with a catering company that holds proper food safety certifications. Meals are hygienic, diverse, and nutritionally balanced, giving students enough energy for afternoon classes. At the same time, we emphasize building independence in eating and daily activities, helping students enjoy their time in the semi-boarding program”.

Gia Ray Primary School. Photo: Phuoc Tho

Not only Huynh Van Nghe Primary and Secondary School but also Gia Ray Primary School swiftly implemented the "semi-boarding" model at the beginning of the 2025–2026 academic year. During the summer, both schools conducted surveys and collected feedback from parents, receiving broad support. Currently, more than 30% of students are enrolled in the "semi-boarding" program.

With over 800 students, the school’s facilities are deemed sufficient to meet demand. It still has 14 unused classrooms available should all students opt into semi-boarding. Dining areas, study spaces, and rest zones are properly arranged to ensure comfort and safety.

Nguyen Van Ha, Principal of Gia Ray Primary School, emphasized: “A major advantage of our school is its well-equipped infrastructure. We work with a professional catering provider to guarantee food safety. Semi-boarding not only eases parents’ worries about midday pick-up and drop-off, but also helps students develop discipline and self-reliance in both study and daily life”.

Xuan Loc Commune continues to expand the semi-boarding model. Photo: Phuoc Tho

Xuan Loc Commune currently manages 21 preschools, primary, and lower-secondary schools. Following school consolidations, local authorities conducted comprehensive assessments of facilities, teaching staff, and investment needs to prepare for the new academic year. Currently, beyond preschools, two schools have implemented the semi-boarding model.

Phan Cao Lam, Vice Chairman of Xuan Loc Commune People’s Committee, noted: “Following provincial guidance, we are reviewing all schools to evaluate their capacity for semi-boarding. For those with adequate facilities and demand from parents, we will direct the expansion of the model. Our priority is ensuring safe dining and resting conditions, followed by staffing and management for semi-boarding. This is a crucial step to replicate the model widely, creating maximum convenience for parents and students”.

Xuan Loc Commune continues to expand the semi-boarding school model. Photo: Phuoc Tho

The implementation of semi-boarding programs in schools across Xuan Loc Commune has received strong approval and positive response from parents, close oversight from local authorities, and proactive, flexible efforts by schools.

As this model continues to receive investment, expansion, and improvement, it is expected to provide more favorable conditions for students to develop comprehensively in knowledge, life skills, and physical health. It is also regarded as a key solution to enhance the quality of education in Xuan Loc in the coming period, meeting parents' expectations and aligning with the overall development strategy of Dong Nai Province's education sector.

By Le Thuy, Phuoc Tho – Translated by Quynh Nhu, Minho